Country Information

• GDP: US$44.7 billion (2009).
• Main imports: Food, petroleum, cotton, chemicals and pharmaceuticals.
• Main exports: Ferronickel, sugar, gold, coffee and cocoa.
• Main trade partners: Canada, Colombia, Japan, Mexico and USA.

Often pointed to as being the largest in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic's economy relies largely on agricultural cash-crops and the mining industry. Other industrial investments are food, drinks, chemicals and the refining of imported oil. Tourism is another major player, and the country's service sector has now overtaken agriculture as the main employer.

The economy has experienced some problems with growth and unemployment, both of which remain a difficulty. Latest official figures on unemployment show that levels are stuck at around 15.5%. Another key problem is income inequality; the poorest half of the population receives less than one-fifth of GNP, while the richest 10% has nearly 40%. It's not uncommon to see gleaming new 4x4 vehicles bumper-to-bumper with rusting, rasping old hatchbacks. The country relies on substantial foreign aid.

The Dominican Republic is a member of CARICOM, the major regional trading bloc.

It is usual for businesspeople to dress smartly and to deal formally with each other at first, although the general atmosphere is informal. Spanish is the main business language and a knowledge of it will be of assistance. Hotels can usually assist with interpreter services.

Office hours: Mon-Sat 0800-1200 and 1400-1800.

Government office hours: Mon-Fri 0800-1500.

Cámara de Comercio y Producción de Santo Domingo
Apartado Postal 815, Arzobispo Nouel 206, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Tel: (809) 682 2688.
Website: www.camarasantodomingo.org.do